Reign - Pilot - Preview

This is not the Tudors or a retelling of Henry VIII, although it deals with that particular time period in which politics, power and gender roles are explored. Joining The CW's fall 2013 line-up is the new period drama REIGN, and surprise surprise, the show will focus on Mary Stuart and her rise to power. You might know her best as Mary, Queen of Scots.

A historical outlook

For the non-historians, Mary, the daughter of James V of Scotland was born in Scotland, 1542, and became Queen of Scots, the moment her father died, which made her officially queen regnant, with her holding a powerful position at a young age. She later was betrothed to Francis, who was the son of Henry II, King of France.
Initially, I was surprised that the show would focus on her meeting of Francis rather than Henry Stuart, but it makes sense, considering that the Pilot focuses on her childhood and adolescence.
Most of her childhood was spent in France, which is why we can take a first look at what we can expect.

Impressions

Overall, the costumes and setting stood out, and the atmosphere fits into the scenes, highlighting youth and vanity over calculated politics. You can expect a few things coming up that underline this sense of growing up in a world that doesn't necessarily allow you to.

1) Mary is not safe within her own confines and cherishes small moments, for example remembering her past. This isn't a queen ready to deal with her position, but a young girl meeting a childhood friend, who has obviously grown into a handsome man with a free spirit (hint: he loves the ladies).

2) That doesn't mean he is safe either. An ominous prophecy seems to seal his fate
3) Their first meeting is marked by mutual attraction, but love triangles are already on the move.

Keep an eye out for REIGN, if you want to follow a drama that is less heavy and calculated politics.
The characters are only just beginning to grow into their role, perhaps even accepting the responsibilities that come with it.



If you are interested in a more teen-oriented period drama focusing on a love story, then this show might be something to try out.

Side note: I'm quite attracted to Adelaide Kane. It's unavoidable.

Disclaimer
Please note that the screener that was given to us by The CW was not a final Production copy. Certain aspects such as music and/or special effects may change in the final production version.